In order to receive the weather
alerts (Tornado Warning, Severe Thunderstorm Warning or Flash Flood
Warning) you must "opt in" by filling in the form available through
the link above. When you fill in the form you can also add your cell
phone
and any unlisted numbers to the CodeRED database the you want to
receive calls for Weather Alerts and other Emergency or Community
messages. Please pass this info on to anyone who may be interested

Knowing what to do during
an emergency is an important part of being
prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.
Preparedness can reduce fear and anxiety as well as reduce losses.
Simple steps can make a big difference in ensuring the safety and
well-
being of loved ones.

“We encourage everyone to ensure their family is ready in the event
of
another disaster,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Gracia Szczech.
“While creating a family preparedness plan involves a little time,
it
is an easy process that can save lives.”

The websitewww.Ready.govbreaks
down the process for preparing for
any emergency into three easy steps:

1.Get a kit.
Have enough food, water and essential supplies to last
three days. Include medicine, copies of prescriptions, flashlights,
extra batteries, blankets, first aid supplies, personal hygiene
items,
appropriate seasonal clothing, cash, a battery operated or crank
radio, a weather radio, cell phones and chargers, important
documents,
and other supplies your family may need.

2.Make
a plan. Decide how your family members should
contact each
other if you’re apart when the disaster occurs, where you will go if
you need to leave home, and where you will gather inside the home
(e.g., a safe room or basement). Establish an out-of-town contact.
It’s also a good idea to have a list of important phone numbers
(family, schools, care providers, doctors, insurance agents,
employers, etc.). Practice your plan.

3.Stay
informed. Learn about disasters that could occur
where you live
(tornadoes, earthquakes, fires, etc.) and how to prepare for them.
Preparedness should account for all types of disasters – both
natural
and man-made.

In addition to providing help developing an emergency plan, the
websitewww.Ready.govis
multi-lingual and also features:

•An interactive “Ready Kids” section with games and information for
children;
•Information for special groups such as older Americans, people with
disabilities, military families and pet owners;
•A locator to learn about emergency plans that have been established
by state and local governments; and
•Online emergency-preparedness tools.

The Emergency Management / Homeland Security Agency is responsible
for the preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery activities
before, during, and after an emergency or disaster affects Lafayette
County. Emergency Management coordinates the direction of county
government operations in response to emergencies. The E.M.A. director
acts under the policies determined by the Board of Supervisors and the
state of Mississippi, and is subject to the Board's general supervision
and control. The E.M.A. director will carry out the general policies of
the Board in conformity with the guidelines established by the state
emergency management and homeland security agencies in accordance with
the established procedures and state laws.

The E.M.A. director is responsible for the development and
implementation of emergency operations plans, community preparedness
activities, emergency communications, and coordination of emergency
response agencies. The E.M.A. director is also responsible for
submission and administration of state and federal grants for
mitigation, preparedness, and response projects.